The Commemorative Coins of the United States

oftties

UNITED STRTES

Compiled and Published by

B. MAX MEH L

NUMISMATIST

MEHL BUILDING FORT WORTH. TEXAS

Established 36 Years

PRICE 50 CENTS

Commemorative Coins

of the

United States

A Chronological and Historical
Arrangement of All the Issues
With Illustrations of Each , (jiv-
ing Humber Authorized, Hum-
ber Coined, Humber Remelted
and Issue Prices.

COMPILED AND PUBLISHED BY

rsrxj-ixri lPm^tilCT

Fort Worth, Texas

Mehl Building

Copyrighted 1937
B. MAX MEHL
Fort Worth, Texas

WHY THIS BOOKLET

With the ever increasing interest in the collecting of
Commemorative Coins, I hope this booklet will be wel-
comed by those who willingly, enthusiastically, or be-
grudgingly indulge in the collecting of all the issues of
our commemorative coins.

No claim is made, nor attempt was made, to make this
booklet a "high-brow" publication. This booklet tells con-
cisely and plainly the pertinent facts about all of the
United States Commemorative Coins. The comment made is
my own, excepting where I have added published com-
ment made by others on some of the various issues. I
thought that this addition would be of interest to collectors.

The comments published may and may not be wrong.
We all have the privilege of expressing our own opinions.
Although it is my opinion, as well as that of a goodly
number of collectors, that the privileges of the issues of
these commemorative coins have been, in some instances,
abused, and that the collectors to a certain extent have
been in some cases unfairly treated, the fact still remains
that the coins, or at least a majority of them, are of his-
torical interest, and to a great extent represent and are
of much numismatic and historic value. In fact of greater
numismatic value than the majority of our regular issues.

I have not taken the time nor space to minutely describe
the designs, as most of the designs are self-explanatory.

Regardless what may be said for or against the Com-
memorative Issues, it is an undeniable fact that since the
issues have made their appearance rapidly, the increase
in number of collectors has correspondingly kept pace in
increase in numbers. Whether or not we approve of some
of the designs or some of the methods used in the dis-
tribution of the coins, we find that with very few excep-
tions the purchases of the Commemorative Coins have
proved a good investment as well as a source of pleasure.

Fort Worth, Texas.
January 30, 1937.

COLUMBIAN HALF DOLLARS— 1892-1893

This is the first commemorative coin issued
by the United States. It was issued for the
Columbian Exposition in Chicago, commem-
orating the 400th Anniversary of the discovery
of America.

On the obverse there is a portrait of Colum-
bus. The reverse is his flagship with the two
hemispheres below.

According to the Mint Records 950,000 of the
half dollars were coined in 1892. They were
originally sold at the Exposition at $1.00 each,
but those unsold were afterwards either placed
in circulation or distributed at 50^.

In 1893 another issue of these half dollars
was struck of the same design as the 1892
excepting, of course, the date. The Mint re-
ports 4,052,105 pieces were struck of which
1,550,405 were either sold or placed in circula-
tion and the balance remelted. They are still
probably the least scarce of our commemora-
tive coins but rather difficult to obtain in abso-
lute brilliant mint condition.

There has been so much comment, favorable and otherwise, on
the flood of commemorative halves, that it is interesting to note
that even with our very first issue of commemorative half dollars
in 1892 it created similar comment which appears with and after
each subsequent issue.

On the next page I give some of the comments on the Colum-
bian Half Dollars as it appeared soon after they were issued,
which even today makes highly interesting and amusing read-
ing.

Page 4

CONTEMPORARY COMMENT ON OUR FIRST
COMMEMORATIVE COINS

(The following appeared in various publications in 1892.)

"The newest thing out. Buy your Half-Dollar for a dollar
and sell it for two dollars. We don't hear much about the
two-dollar victims yet, but suppose they will be forthcoming."

"The picture of Columbus upon the souvenir coins will be
ideal, so it is stated. It is not altogether clear how it could
be anything else, since the roving gentleman whose bones rest
in pair of tombs, neglected to leave any authentic portrait.
Those available range from figures of a palid student to a
bewhiskered brigand, each probably as wrong as the other"
— San Francisco Examiner.

He smiled at her so wide, she thought
He loved her. Oh, what folly;
Because the truth was he'd just bought
A souvenir Half Dollah.

If Columbus could come back and discover us again,

By any circumstantial or hocus pocus sort of way;

That head upon the souvenirs would surely give him pain;
And this is about what Christopher would say:

! ? ! i

THE EDITOR OF THE GALVESTON DAILY NEWS DOESN'T
LIKE THE SOUVENIR HALF-DOLLAR

"The front side of the coin has an elegant likeness of the
late Sitting Bull. This, however, is said to be meant for
Columbus. The patriotic American can take his choice, and
the know-nothings certainly will claim the head to be intended
for Sitting Bull because of that gentleman being an American.
On the right shoulder appears the letter B. This certainly indi-
cates the location of either a boil or a barnacle.

"There is also a likeness of Columbus' ship, under full sail.
At first blush the ship seems to be on wheels, but closer
examination shows that the two wheels are the eastern and
western hemispheres. The ship seems to be surrounded by a
herd of porpoises, but probably this is meant for waves.

"There is also a fishing pole rigged out of an after port in
the cabin of the ship, and one gathers an idea that the venture-
some mariner is either baiting his hook and lying about a bite
he has just had, or has hauled in a fish, for the line is taken
aboard ship. The figures 1492 appear beneath the vessel. The
coin is of the same size and weight as the old run of half-
dollars, and, for all they are sold at a heavy premium, the
purchasing power is but ten beers."

Page 5

PANAMA PACIFIC HALF DOLLAR—1915

This commemorative half dollar is a mem-
ber of a family of five commemorative coins
issued to celebrate the construction and open-
ing of the Panama Canal. It was issued under
the sponsorship of the Panama Pacific Exposi-
tion held in San Francisco from February 20th
to December 4th, 1915.

The lady on the obverse is supposed to
represent Columbia; the little husky gal with
her rather too large ''cornucopia/' or horn of
plenty, is supposed to represent the resources
of the West. The reverse is self explanatory.

Total number of the Panama Pacific half
dollars coined was 60,030. The coins were
placed on sale at $1.00 each at which price
27,164 were sold. The balance 32,866 were
returned to the mint and remelted.

Due to the fact that a great number of these
coins were purchased by non-collectors at the
Exposition they are now very scarce, particu-
larly in mint condition, and is considered one
of the scarcest of the entire issue of half
dollars.

(The gold coins of the Panama Pacific issue I list in the gold
section of this booklet.)

Page 6

Numismatic Comment on the Panama-Pacific
Commemorative Coins From the
"Numismatist," August 1915

"Numismatics has received a new impetus
by the government's issue of the Panama
Exhibition coins. Unfortunately these are put
out at double face, a handicap which is quite
serious in the case of the fifty-dollar pieces
and there are two of these, one round the
other octagonal in memory of the slugs of the
earliest settlers. The fifty cent piece is an
attractive coin and the quarter eagle is of
considerable artistic merit but the gold dollar
is an abomination. Nearly every one who
sees the piece wants to know why they put
the head of a ball player on it. Not one cor-
rectly guessed that the profile represented
'labor.' Labor as heretofore depicted is shown
with a strong intellectual face, brawny arms
and the implements of mechanical work. Note
the figure on the two-dollar bill. A very dif-
ferent conception to the face with a vacant
stare and the brow covered with a slouch hat.
Good or bad they add to the slowly lengthen-
ing series of commemorative coins issued by
our government — an interesting series of com-
memorative coins issued by our government
— an interesting series to collect and at the
present time within the reach of all, although
some are difficult to find at advancing prices."

Page 7

1918— ILLINOIS OR LINCOLN HALF DOLLAR

This beautiful coin was struck to commemo-
rate the One Hundredth Anniversary of the
admission of the state of Illinois into the
Union.

A total of 100,058 specimens were struck,
a goodly number of which remained unsold
but not returned to the mint for remelting.
They originally sold at $1.00 each.

Approximately 30,000 specimens were in a
bank in Springfield and handled by the Cham-
ber of Commerce of that city. That particular
bank "took a holiday" during the bank holi-
day of 1933 and the remainder of these coins,
the exact number of which is uncertain, were
purchased by several dealers at less than the
original price of $1.00 each, so that the market
was considerably flooded with them, but it
seems that the surplus has now been well ab-
sorbed. It is one of the most attractive coins of
the entire series of commemorative half dollars.

Page 8

1920— MAINE CENTENNIAL HALF DOLLAR

This issue was the beginning of the deluge
of commemorative issues. It was struck to
commemorate the One Hundredth Anniversary
of the state of Maine being admitted into the
Union. A far more historical purpose than
some of the issues which followed.

The obverse bears the State Arms.

The total number struck, according to Mint
Reports, 50,028 all of which were disposed of
by the Maine Centennial Commission. The
original issue price was $1.00.

While the issue of the Maine half dollar was
rather ''liberal" they were well distributed so
that now they are fairly scarce.

Page 9

1920-1921— PILGRIM HALF DOLLARS

This interesting half dollar was struck to
commemorate the Three Hundredth Anni-
versary of the Landing of the Pilgrims at
Plymouth. The portrait on the obverse is that
of Governor Bradford; the ship on the reverse
is the Mayflower.

Of the 1920 coins a total number of 200,212
coins were struck, and offered at $1.00 each.
Apparently the sale was very successful as
none were returned to the mint and all were
either sold or distributed.

Apparently the Committee in charge thought
they could do as well with another issue. And
in 1921 proceeded to strike 100,053 more of the
coins, but they soon found that some things
can be done successfully only once and the
Committee returned 80,000 of the coins to be
remelted, therefore only 20,053 were sold at
$1.00 and remained in so-called circulation.

Naturally this makes the 1921 a very scarce
commemorative half-dollar, and incidentally
this was the beginning of the hot idea of try-
ing to "get" the collector at least twice. And
from the way collectors have responded to the
various subsequent issues is indicative that
collectors, whether they like it or not, are
going in for minor varieties of commemora-
tives.

Page 10

1921— ALABAMA HALF DOLLARS— 1921

The Alabama half dollar was struck to com-
memorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of
the admission of the State of Alabama into the
Union.

The portraits on the obverse are of Governor
Bibb, the first Governor of Alabama, and
Thomas E. Kilbey, the Governor of 1920. On
the reverse is the usual overworked eagle, etc.

The coin was authorized in May 1920 but
was not struck until October 1921. There were
6,006 specimens struck with 2x2 indicating
that Alabama was the twenty-second state to
enter the Union. All of these coins were dis-
tributed.

A second issue of 54,038 was struck without
2x2, of which 49,038 were distributed and
5,000 returned to the Mint to be remelted.

If you just want to know when Alabama was accepted into
the Union, you just buy one coin, but if you want to know
the numerical order in which it was received, in other words
if you want an Alabama half dollar with 2 x 2 on it, it was
necessary for you to buy another coin at its issue price at
that time of only $1.00. But now, brother, (1937) the same
coin costs you $17.50, and I dare say that even this price will
seem mighty low in the very near future.

Page 1 1

1921— MISSOURI HALF DOLLARS— 1921

While this is supposed to be a Missouri or
state coin and while it was struck to com-
memorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of
the admission of the State of Missouri into
the Union, its issue was instigated by the
town of Sedalia for its State Fair held in that
town in August 1921.

The portrait on the obverse is that of a
frontiersman; on the reverse are full length
figures of an Indian and a pioneer or frontiers-
man.

According to Mint Reports, 45,000 specimens
were struck of which number 15,400 were sold
and the balance 29,600 were returned to the
Mint for remelting.

Apparently after this was done it appeared
to the Powers-that-be in Sedalia that the
people should be informed of the fact that
Missouri was the twenty-fourth state admitted
into the Union, and the method by which this
information was to be given was that an addi-
tional quantity of the coins be struck with the
figures 2x4 on obverse and, of course, these
coins again to be sold. Only 5,000 of these
coins were struck and sold and these are now,
naturally, quite rare.

Altho the issue price of both varieties of the Missouri Half
Dollars was $1.00 each. They are now (Jan. 1937) being priced
at $20.00 for the plain and $35.00 each for the variety with
2x4.

Page 12

1922— GRANT MEMORIAL HALF
DOLLARS— 1922

Two varieties of these half dollars, as well
as two varieties of gold dollars, (see gold
section of this booklet) were struck to com-
memorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of
the birth of General Grant. Grant was un-
doubtedly a great man but I hardly think he
rates an issue of four coins.

The design is self explanatory. Portrait, of
course, is that of General Grant, and the
reverse shows a log cabin supposed to have
been the birthplace of the General.

Of the first issue 95,000 specimens were
struck of which 67,215 were sold: the balance,
27,785 were returned to the Mint and re-
melted.

However, not to be outdone by some of the
previous issues, a second issue of the half
dollars were struck of the same design with
the only exception that a small five pointed
star was incused (stamped in) above the name
GRANT. Only 5,000 of the second issue half
dollars were minted. All but 750 were sold;
these 750 were remelted leaving only 4,250 in
the hands of collectors or in circulation.

At first the collectors did not take very kindly or very
promptly to this second issue; however, due to the small
number issued they began to creep up in price, where in
August 1935 they were selling at $10.00 each: in January 1936
they were bringing $20.00 each and now (Jan. 1937) they are
bringing $60.00 each. Their original issue price was $1.00 each.

Page 13

CONTEMPORARY COMMENT ON THE GRANT HALF
DOLLARS AS IT APPEARED IN THE MAY, 1922
ISSUE OF THE "NUMISMATIST"

"The head of Grant on the coins is in profile and shows him
as he probably appeared in the later years of his life, with
closely cropped beard, notwithstanding he is wearing a mili-
tary coat. This head is not as suitable or life-like for a coin
portrait as the head on the small medallet issued for the
occasion, if it was the intention to show him as he appeared
during the days of the Civil War, when he was under 45.
On the reverse of the coins is shown his cabin birthplace, on
each side of which are trees of such a height that the cabin
appears dwarfed. The surroundings of the cabin at the time
of his birth may have been such as are pictured on the coins,
but for the sake of better effect, a little of the realism might
have been sacrificed without detracting from historic interest.

"The Grant coins differ from other commemorative coins here-
tofore issued in that there is no inscription on them telling of
their nature or object — no reference to a Grant Memorial — the
designs alone telling the story.

"In design and execution they are the equal of any of our
recent commemorative issues, all of which have proved exceed-
ingly popular with collectors."

AND THIS FROM THE "PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER,"
ON THE GRANT HALF DOLLARS

"Profits arising from this enterprise are to be devoted to
constructing a modern highway for five miles outside of the
Grant birthplace and further to erect a Community Building
in Georgetown, which was the home of Grant at the time he
was appointed to West Point. This little village is a few miles
from his birthplace and is the county seat of Brown county,
containing a few thousand inhabitants, and presenting much
of the same appearance as at the time General Grant left it,
never to return. Largely settled by Southern people, it has
more the appearance of a Virginia county seat than of a
Northern county town. In spite of its small population it con-
tributed twelve general officers to the Civil War and more than
one hundred officers of other ranks.

"This is an unusual memorial, and while it is not customary
for Congress to assist in the erection of a purely local build-
ing, the manner in which it is accomplished draws nothing
from the Federal Treasury. It is assumed that the coins in
question will provide an amount ample for the two purposes,
which would mean that they would sell for about 200 per
cent premium. Georgetown and Point Pleasant owe all of their
fame to the fact that the name of General Grant is associated
with them. Doubtless coin collectors will be glad to have these
new specimens, not only to assist a worthy cause, but as
souvenirs of the great Captain of our Civil War, whose fame
grows constantly as years pass on, and whom the victorious
General Foch says he took as his model in the recent World
War."

Page 14

1923— MONROE HALF DOLLAR—1923

This coin is really an historical one for the
reason that it commemorates the One Hun-
dredth Anniversary of the Monroe Doctrine.

The portraits on the obverse are of Presi-
dents Monroe and Adams. The reverse are
two figures representing and in position to
form a map of the two continents.

A total of 274,077 coins were struck and all
were either sold or distributed; none were
returned to the Mint. Soon after their issue
the market was flooded with them and quanti-
ties were obtained at less than their issue
price of $1.00, but apparently they are now well
distributed, and they are not easily obtainable
in choice condition.

Page 15

1924— HUGUENOT-WALLOON HALF
DOLLAR—1924

This half dollar was struck to commemorate
the Three Hundredth Anniversary of the settle-
ment of New Nederland by the Huguenots and
Walloons.

The portraits on the obverse are of Admiral
Coligny and William the Silent. The ship on
the reverse is that of the New Nederland.

A total of 142,080 of these half dollars were
struck of which amount 87,080 were sold or
distributed at $1.00 each, and the remainder
of 55,000 were returned to the Mint for re-
melting.

For a while, due to the large number struck,
these coins were easily obtained, but, due to
the huge number of new collectors for com-
memorative coins who have appeared in the
last few years all of the earlier commemora-
tive half dollars, even of large issues, have
greatly increased in value.

Page 16

1925— STONE MOUNTAIN HALF DOLLAR

This interesting commemorative half dollar
was struck in 1925 to "commemorate,'' — but in
reality to raise some funds toward the comple-
tion of the Stone Mountain Memorial outside
of Atlanta, which was carved on the Stone
Mountain in commemoration of the Southern
Soldiers.

The mounted figures are those of General
Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. The
reverse is self explanatory, but whether or not
through intention, the wings of the eagle are
drooping — probably in sorrow over the "lost
cause."

The Mint Report shows that no less than
2,314,709 of these coins were struck and that
only 1,165 were returned for remelting and
that the balance of 2,313,544 were "released
for circulation."

While I do not know whether or not any of these coins are
now available, but the Committee in charge certainly did a
hangup job if they sold that many coins at their issue price of
$1.00 each.

I well recall the extensive campaign made throughout the
South, and I believe that there are quite a few hoards of these
coins in the hands of patriotic southerners. At any rate this
coin has one distinction, which will probably never be equalled
by any other issue of commemorative, in that it is today and
will ever be the least rare of our commemorative half dollars —
with the possible exception of the 1893 Columbian.

Page 17

1925— LEXINGTON-CONCORD HALF
DOLLAR—1925

This attractive coin was struck to commem-
orate the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of
the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

The obverse is a replica of the famous
statue in Concord. The reverse is a reproduc-
tion of the old belfry at Lexington.

The Mint Reports that 152,000 of these coins
were struck and were sold by the Committee
in charge at $1.00 each.

Although the number issued would indicate
that the coin is not scarce, apparently it was
well distributed, and with the increasing num-
ber of collectors the value of these half dollars
is constantly advancing in price. To my mind
it is really one of the most historically interest-
ing coins of the entire commemorative series.

Page 18

1925— FORT VANCOUVER HALF
DOLLAR—1925

This rather beautiful coin was struck to com-
memorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of
the founding of Fort Vancouver in Washing-
ton.

The portrait is that of the builder of the
Fort, Dr. John McLoughlin. The figure on the
reverse is that of a frontiersman, and the
background is that of the Fort, mountains, etc.

Only 50,028 of the coins were struck — all at
the San Francisco Mint. Of this number 14,966
were sold at $1.00 each and the balance of
35,062 were returned to the Mint to be re-
melted.

As is readily realized, with an issue of less,
than 15,000 back in 1925, these coins today
are classed among the rarest of the series and
the coin is destined to become a real rarity.

Page 19

1925— CALIFORNIA DIAMOND JUBILEE
HALF DOLLAR—1925

This is my favorite coin because San Fran-
cisco is my favorite city (not that you give
a dam).

This beautiful coin was struck to commem-
orate the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary of Cali-
fornia being admitted into the Union (this coin
should have been struck in gold).

Obverse is a very fine piece of art work
showing a miner washing gold.

The reverse is a bear, the emblem of Cali-
fornia (why, I don't know). I have traveled
and toured California from one end to the
other and have never yet seen a bear.

Of these fine coins the Mint Reports 150,200
were struck at the San Francisco Mint, the
unsold number 63,606, leaving a balance of
86,594 in circulation or sold to collectors at
$1.00 each. Although the number distributed
to collectors is fairly large, the coin has been
very scarce for the past several years and
seems to be in good demand with prices
steadily on the up grade.

Page 20

1926— SESQUI-CENTENNIAL
HALF DOLLAR—1926

While this coin is not a beauty from the
artistic point of view, it does have the distinc-
tion of being the first United States coin
bearing the portrait of a then living President,
President Coolidge. The other portrait, of
course, is that of George Washington.

This half dollar was struck to commemorate
the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of the
signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Personally, I think it is one of the poorest
designed and struck coins of the entire series.

A total of 1,000,528 were struck of which
number 141,120 were sold at $1.00 each, and
the balance of 859,408 were remelted.

The number of coins sold of this issue is
indicative of rather poor salesmanship. Phila-
delphia with a population of over 2,000,000
people, and so-called World's Fair (which was
almost finished just before it closed) should
and could have disposed of a greater number
of coins.

A $2.50 gold piece was also issued to commemorate this
event. It is listed in the gold section of this booklet.

Page 21

OREGON TRAIL HALF DOLLARS

This is one of the most beautiful, artistically
designed, and well struck coins of the entire
series. It was struck to commemorate the
Oregon Trail.

This issue also marks the beginning of the
deluge of varieties, mint marks, etc., of the
commemorative issues.

In 1926, according to Mint Reports, at the
Philadelphia Mint, 98,030 specimens were
struck. At the San Francisco Mint 100,000 of
the coins were struck.

The number actually distributed or sold at
$1.00 each is not known: — For in 1927 I was
invited to make an offer on quite a large
quantity of the coins still on hand, but I do
not recall whether the coins were then struck
or whether they were available to be struck.
That was before the day of small issues and I
was not smart enough ''to invent the idea";
However the idea was invented by someone
else, and in 1928 another issue of these half
dollars appeared — all struck at the Phila-
delphia Mint.

According to Mint Reports, 50,028 of the coins were struck in
that year (1928) and that 42,000 were remelted — leaving a
balance of 8,028 that were sold.

Then in 1933 another quantity of the Oregon Trail Half Dollars
appeared. These were all struck at the Denver Mint and only
6,000 were struck. They were sold at a nominal sum, I think,
that of $1.00 or $1.50 each, but of course now, naturally, are
very scarce (selling up to $10.00 each).

Page 22

OREGON TRAIL HALF DOLLARS— Continued

As a 6,000 issue is not large, it was readily
absorbed by collectors and then, lo and be-
hold, in 1934 another quantity of 7,000 pieces
were struck.

Apparently it took a couple of years to dis-
pose of those —

SO — in

1936 another quantity was struck both at Philadelphia and
San Francisco Mints. 10,006 at the Philadelphia Mint and only
5,006 at the San Francisco Mint. All of these were originally
placed on the market at less than $2.00 each. The 1936 Phila-
delphia Mint coin is now retailing at $5.00 and the San Francisco
Mint at $10.00

Where this thing will stop? I don't know.

1927— BENNINGTON, VT., HALF DOLLAR

This finely designed and struck commemo-
rative half dollar was issued to commemorate
the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of the
Battle of Bennington.

The portrait is that of Ira Allen. Reverse is
that of a panther or mountain lion.

The Mint Reports that 40,034 were struck, of
which number 28,142 were sold at $1.00 each,
and the balance of 11,892 were returned to the
Mint to be melted.

This coin is now entering in the very scarce
class.

Page 23

1928— HAWAIIAN OR CAPT. COOK
HALF DOLLAR—1928

This half dollar was struck to commemorate
the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of the
discovery of the Hawaiian Islands by Capt.
James Cook, of the British navy.

The portrait on the obverse is that of Capt.
Cook. Reverse is that of one of the Hawaiian
Chiefs.

There were only 10,000 of the coins struck,
5,000 of which were sold or distributed in the
Hawaiian Islands, and 5,000 on the mainland,
as the Hawaiians call the States.

They were sold at $2.00 each — and limited
the sale of five coins to each buyer. Of course,
all of the coins were sold and immediately
advanced in value; where today (Jan. 1937)
they are retailing for $15.00 each.

There were also fifty specimens struck in
sandblast proof condition and sold at $50.00
each. But there is very little difference in
appearance between the sandblast proof and
original issue.

Page 24

1934— MARYLAND HALF DOLLAR—1934

This half dollar was struck to commemorate
the Three Hundredth Anniversary of the found-
ing of Maryland.

The portrait on the obverse is that of Cecil
Calvert. The reverse is the Arms of Maryland.

The number authorized and struck was
25,000, the greater proportion of which was
sold at $1.00 each with the assurance that
none would be offered for less. However some
5,000 of the coins were left unsold and later
offered in large quantities at 75^ each, and I
understand that the remainder were sold at
even a lower price than that. However with
the advent of so many new collectors, the
coins were soon absorbed and now are fairly
scarce.

Page 25

TEXAS CENTENNIAL HALF DOLLARS

Of course, those of us who know a little
about Texas History know that Texas Inde-
pendence was won at the Battle of San Jacinto
on March 2, 1836, and not 1834.

But the idea of the commemorative coins
was advanced by the Texas Division of the
American Legion. The idea was to raise funds
from the sale of these coins to build a Memo-
rial Building.

The Bill authorized 1,500,000. In 1934, ac-
cording to Mint Reports, 250,000 coins were
coined.

The Texas issue is also one of "high
finance," and I am not entirely free from guilt
that so many different issues of these coins
were issued. The Committee called on me and
I gave them my idea as to how to sell more
of the coins.

In 1935, 10,000 coins were struck at each of
our three Mints, Philadelphia, Denver, and
San Francisco. They were sold at $1.50 each.

And then in 1936 a similar issue of 10,000
coins were issued or a total of 30,000 and also
placed on sale at $1.50 each. The 1934 issue
was sold and are still being sold at $1.00
each. Of course, the 1935 and 1936 coins are
destined to become rather scarce.

Page 26

TEXAS CENTENNIAL HALF DOLLARS— Continued

The design of the coin looked great when
drawn on paper in huge size, but when re-
duced to actual coin size it is not so hot.

The obverse bears the five pointed star,
insignia of the Lone Star State; the eagle is
for decorative purposes and certainly unneces-
sary. Reverse: the two portraits are of Stephen
F. Austin and Sam Houston. What the winged
female figure is for I don't know. Instead of
the space it occupies, more space should have
been given to the reproduction of the Alamo.
Forgot to mention that the six flags on the
reverse represent the six countries under which
Texas served; Spain, France, Mexico, Republic
of Texas, Confederate States, and United
States.

At any rate, it is an interesting coin and the
last two issues of it are becoming rather
scarce.

Page 27

KENTUCKY OR DANIEL BOONE
HALF DOLLARS

This interesting coin was struck to commem-
orate the Two Hundredth Anniversary of the
birth of Daniel Boone.

This coin is also interesting because it has
created more comment than any other com-
memorative half dollar due to its uninten-
tional "rarity manufacture."

The portrait on the obverse is that of Daniel
Boone at the time of his great career as a
pioneer in Kentucky.

On the reverse is depicted Chief Black Fish
of the Shawnees, negotiating a treaty with
Boone on the eve of the memorable nine-day
siege of Fort Boonesborough, in September
1778.

A total of 600,000 coins was authorized.

The first issue appeared in 1934 of which
10,000 coins were struck at the Philadelphia
Mint only.

In 1935 10,000 more coins were struck at the
Philadelphia Mint and 5,000 each at the San
Francisco and Denver Mints.

Page 28

KENTUCKY HALF DOLLARS— Continued

Then another issue was coined in 1935 with
small date 1934. Of this variety 10,000 coins
were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and only
2,000 each at the San Francisco and Denver
Mints.

In 1936 10,000 more were struck at the
Philadelphia Mint and 5,000 each at the San
Francisco and Denver Mints.

Although in the early part of 1936 the dis-
tributor of these coins announced the issue of
the 1936 Philadelphia Mint as a 10,000 issue,
and informed me later on in the year that
he was contemplating coining more of them at
the Philadelphia Mint. (According to the Oct.
1936 Mint Report, I noticed that 2,004 more
of these were coined at the Philadelphia Mint.)

The 2,000 issued in 1935-34 Denver and San Francisco Mints
created quite a furor in numismatic circles. Apparently, the
distributor did not know or realize the difference in rarity
between a 2,000 issue and a 5,000 issue. Naturally, he was
tremendously swamped with orders greatly over-subscribing
the 2,000 issue. Whether or not very many of them were dis-
tributed to original subscribers, I do not know, but I do know
that as much as $100.00 per pair was paid for them and that
later the distributor offered and supplied the sets in lots of ten
sets at greatly reduced prices. Also understand that single
sets were offered later to collectors at about twenty times the
original advertised prices.

However, whether or not the value and rarity of these coins
is attributed to the small issue makes very little difference, the
coins are rare and are destined to become even more so.

Page 29

ARKANSAS CENTENNIAL HALF DOLLARS

Another coin which "beat the gun.”

Arkansas was admitted to the Union in 1836
and this coin commemorates that important
event, — to Arkansas.

However, the first issue was coined in 1935
at which time 10,000 coins were struck at the
Philadelphia Mint. These were practically all
sold out in the first eight or nine months of
1935. The Committee in charge continued to
receive requests for the coins and decided to
coin an additional small quantity. They com-
municated with the writer and upon his sug-
gestion it was decided to coin 3,000 more at
the Philadelphia Mint and 5,500 more at
each of the branch mints, Denver and San
Francisco, the major portion of which was
purchased by the writer.

The original issue price of these coins was
$1.00 each.

In 1936, the centennial year, 10,000 coins
were issued in each of the three mints or a
total of 30,000 coins which were placed on
sale at $1.50 each. The total authorized num-
ber is 500,000.

The portraits on the obverse are supposed to be that of Lib-
erty and a typical Indian. On the reverse the three stars di-
rectly above the eagle is symbolic of Arkansas being the third
state carved from the Louisiana Purchase and also represents
the three flags under which Arkansas served, Spain, France,
and America: the single star above ARKANSAS commemorates
the state's participation in the Confederacy.

Page 30

ARKANSAS HALF DOLLARS— Continued

I don't think the coin would win any beauty prize but
with its limited coinage it is becoming a member of the
Rare Family.”

Another "ARKANSAS": Not to be outdone by the other
great patriotic commemorative committees, the gentlemen
in charge of the Arkansas Centennial probably borrowed
the idea from Lynchburg, Virginia, and were successful,
with the aid of powerful political influence to have
Congress approve a bill for the coinage of another 1936
Arkansas Half Dollar with the portrait of Senator Robinson,
while the reverse of the coin is the same as the previous
issues.

The 25,000 were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and the
entire issue sold to one party in New York and offered to the
public at $1.85 each.

ONE COLLECTOR'S COMMENT ON COMMEMORATIVE
HALF DOLLARS IN GENERAL, AND ARKANSAS
AND BOONES IN PARTICULAR

Just a little more than a year ago I took considerable pride
in my collection of commemorative half bucks. Each coin
carried an interest that created in me a renaissance in both
history and geography. True, the Oregon Indian tribe was
becoming a war party, but by showing the reverse of some
it didn't hurt the appearance of the collection, as it was such
an artistically designed coin. Now when I look at my assort-
ment I realize that I am a real numismatic nut. Who but a bug
would try to obtain an assortment of ten of that long nose on
the Boone issue? I'm glad that I have only eight of them and
I'm glad that Daniel never looked like that sculpted mug.

Then those seven Texas items. It's not a very proud eagle
that is trying to hide that star, but it revives your geographic
knowledge that Texas is our largest State when you see them
trying to show everything in that State on one side of a coin.

And the Arkansas (how these eagles have lost their beauty
since the Alabama and Illinois issues)! The carpenter that
designed it should have omitted his square or shown his union
card. And the decapitated redskin and his equally bodiless
companion are all wrong. When did an Indian ever get that
close to liberty?

I'm thankful that there's only three of those Rhode Island
notary public seals, and triply glad for only one of Mr.

Hoffecker's map and steer head. I've seen those steer heads

in Mexican market restaurants. You could buy a slice of cheek
or an eyeball for lunch, if so disposed.

In spite of my knocks, I still like the darned monstrosities,
but I hope the coin company will lay off the Oregon. Old
Daniel was a simple old guy, and I'm sure he's embarrassed

with the present number of shrines, and I do hope those

Arkansas and Texas centennials will not carry over into 1937.
They might forget to stop.

I like to inflict my collection on visiting friends, and I'm tired
explaining why I have so many of these items.

Page 31

1935— CONNECTICUT HALF DOLLAR—1935

A beautiful coin struck to commemorate the
three hundredth anniversary of the founding
of Connecticut.

On the obverse is the historic Charter Oak.
The reverse is a rather hefty American eagle.

A total of 25,000 of these half dollars were
coined at the Phildadelphia Mint only and
seemed to have been immediately absorbed.
The issue price was only $1.00 each but it was
not long before they were selling at several
times that amount.

Page 32

1935— HUDSON HALF DOLLAR—1935

Hudson is a town of about 14,000 population
and why it should rate a coin to commemorate
its One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary is be-
yond me.

However, whoever was responsible for the
coin did a good job, both in its design and in
its sale.

The ship on the obverse is probably in-
tended for the Half Moon, the flagship of
Hudson. The reverse represents Neptune on a
whale (this is the first intimation of whales
being prevalent in the Hudson River).

Only 10,000 coins were struck, all at the
Philadelphia Mint. They were sold, or rather
advertised to be sold, at $1.00 each, but
precious few were obtainable at that price.
They immediately jumped in value where to-
day they are selling at about $10.00 each.

The Hudson half dollar is one of quite a number of issues
illustrating the fact that it is not always the quantity coined
which regulates the rarity; it is the locality in which they are
issued and the manner of distribution, etc.

Page 33

1935— OLD SPANISH TRAIL HALF
DOLLAR—1935

A very unusual and rather historical coin
struck to commemorate the Four Hundredth
Anniversary of the opening of the Old Spanish
Trail.

The design is self explanatory.

The issue was prompted, fathered, and
nursed by a very able numismatist who also
managed its fair distribution.

10,000 of the coins were struck at the Phila-
delphia Mint only and sold originally at $2.00
per coin. It was not long however before the
coins brought three and four times the original
issue price.

Page 34

1935-1936— SAN DIEGO EXPOSITION
HALF DOLLARS

A truly magnificent coin issued for the pur-
pose to commemorate and to financially assist
the California-Pacific International Exposition
held in San Diego, California, 1935.

The obverse shows the arms of the state
of California. The reverse is one of the build-
ings of the Exposition.

In 1935 250,000 of these half dollars were
struck at the San Francisco Mint and offered
for sale at $1.00 each. But only 70,000 of the
coins were sold and 180,000 were returned to
the Mint to be remelted.

In 1936 another issue of 180,000 coins were
minted at the Denver Mint and offered to the
public at $1.50 each. At this writing informa-
tion is unavailable as to the number dis-
posed of.

Page 35

1936— RHODE ISLAND HALF DOLLARS

This medal-looking half dollar was struck
by Rhode Island to commemorate the Three
Hundredth Anniversary of the founding of the
Province of Rhode Island.

The obverse depicts the welcome of Roger
Williams by the Indians.

The reverse shows the Arms of the State.

A total of 50,000 coins were minted; 20,000
at the Philadelphia Mint and 15,000 each at
the Denver and San Francisco Mints. They
were advertised to be issued at $1.00 each
but, as far as I know, precious few collectors
obtained them at that price. However a dealer
in Providence seemed to have had quite a
large quantity of them and they were ob-
tainable at an advance in price.

Page 36

1936— WISCONSIN HALF DOLLAR—1936

This beautiful coin was the second issued
in 1936 and the beginning of a deluge of
commemorative half dollars for the year.
There were probably more different issues
of commemorative half dollars issued in 1936
than in all previous years combined.

This attractive coin was issued to com-
memorate the Wisconsin Territorial Centen-
nial.

The obverse shows a badger and the in-
scription.

The reverse represents the Great Seal of
Wisconsin.

There was a total of 25,000 coins issued,
all at the Philadelphia Mint, and offered by
the Commission at $1.50 each.

Page 37

1936 — Bridgeport or Barnum Half Dollar

This unusual coin was issued to commem-
orate the One Hundredth Anniversary of the
incorporation of Bridgeport as a city.

25,000 coins were struck, all at the Phila-
delphia Mint, and sold at $2.00 each. From
the report we have the issue was completely
sold out.

As no doubt, the first thought in the col-
lectors mind is just why Mr. Barnum's portrait
should be upon the coins. Here is the reason
given by the Committee:

"In addition to the world-wide fame of P. T. Barnum as a
showman, we look upon him with a great deal of respect as
a fine citizen and philanthropist of our city. He served as
our Mayor in the year 1875. In 1851 he purchased a tract of
land in East Bridgeport, laid out streets and lined them with
trees. He also reserved a grove of eight acres, which is now
known as Washington Park. This was the beginning of an
industrial development in our city which has since grown lo
great proportions."

Considering the status of the commemorative coins we think
that Barnum's likeness, in view of his famous remark, is cer-
tainly most appropriate.

As regards the reverse, it is best described by a comment
made by one of the suckers, pardon me, I mean purchasers, as
published in a recent issue of a publication:

"The eagle (?) on the new Bridgeport Half-Dollar is the
biggest joke as a specimen of our noble bird that ever ap-
peared on a coin. Not a feather appears on its tin-roof surface,
and several beholders said it resembled an airplane. Turn it
around and you have a fine shark with two dorsal fins, an
open mouth and a tongue.

"The shark appears to be laughing. I wonder at whom? And
how apropos that P. T. Barnum's portrait adorns the other
side. He was right in his famous remarks years ago."

Page 38

1936— CLEVELAND HALF DOLLAR—1936

This very attractive coin was issued by
Cleveland commemorating its One Hundredth
Anniversary.

The obverse bears the portrait of General
Moses Cleaveland, who founded the city of
Cleveland in 1836.

The reverse shows an airplane view of the
Great Lakes region with a compass, one end
of which is pointing to the city of Cleveland
and the other end encircling the Great Lakes.

The bill authorized an issue of 50,000 coins
of which but 25,000 have been struck so far,
and these were offered and sold at $1.50 each.

The design of the coin is well executed and
the coin is well struck. It is a worthy addi-
tion to the long list of commemoratives.

Page 39

1936— LYNCHBURG (VIRGINIA) HALF
DOLLAR—1936

This half dollar was struck to commemorate
the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of the
founding of the city of Lynchburg.

On the obverse appears the portrait of
Senator Carter Glass, whose home is in
Lynchburg. The reverse shows Liberty in the
attitude of conveying welcome to the city; in
the distance is the Confederate Memorial and
the old Lynchburg Courthouse.

20,000 specimens were authorized and struck
and these were offered and sold at $1.00 each.
And, due to the reasonable price placed on
the coins they were immediately sold out.

An interesting news item appeared just before these coins
were issued:

SENATOR GLASS OBJECTS TO PORTRAIT
ON COINS

Press reports state that Senator Carter Glass vigorously pro-
tested having his portrait on the Lynchburg (Va.) half dollars
to commemorate the sesqui-centennial of his home city. As a
last resort he is said to have called at the Philadelphia Mint
recently to ask "if it were permissible for the profile of a live
man to appear on coins." Told there was no law against it,
Senator Glass shook his head and said: "I had hoped there
would be an avenue of escape." His fellow-townsmen arranged
for the coin.

Page 40

1936— YORK COUNTY (MAINE)

COMMEMORATIVE HALF DOLLAR—1936

This half dollar commemorates the Three
Hundredth Anniversary of the settlement of
York County.

The obverse shows the old stockade on the
Saco river, on which site now stands the York
National Bank, the first and oldest bank in
Maine. The stockade was called Brown's Gar-
rison. On the reverse is the seal of York
County.

The number of coins struck was 25,000 of
which 10,000 were supposed to have been
reserved for the residents of York county and
the State of Maine. The balance were offered
at $1.50 each.

The design reminds one more of a medal
than a coin and in my humble opinion would
hardly win a beauty prize.

Page 41

1936— SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND BAY
BRIDGE COMMEMORATIVE
HALF DOLLAR—1936

As with everything else pertaining to San
Francisco, the half dollar issued in the latter
part of 1936, commemorating the completion
of the great bridge linking San Francisco and
Oakland, is a most interesting and well
designed coin which tells the story it's sup-
posed to tell.

On the obverse is a bear, the emblem of
California. The reverse shows a view of the
great bridge stretching from San Francisco to
Yerba Buena Island and East Bay Hills, with
the historic Ferry Tower in the foreground.

100,000 of the half dollars were struck and
offered to the public at $1.50 each.

Page 42

1936— LONG ISLAND HALF DOLLAR—1936

This half dollar was issued to commemorate
the Three Hundredth Anniversary of the first
white settlement on Long Island, in June 1636.

The obverse bears conjoined portraits of two
rather tough looking gentlemen, but so far
have been unable to ascertain just who they
are or who they are supposed to represent.
The reverse is supposed to be a sailing vessel
and was apparently modeled from one of the
usual toy ship models. However, since it is a
legal coin authorized by the United States
Congress, we accept it with more or less grace
as a member of the fast growing family of
commemorative halves.

The Committee reports that 100,000 speci-
mens were struck. They were offered at $1.00
each and from what I can learn the greater
proportion has been sold at this writing (Jan-
uary 1937).

Page 43

1936— CINCINNATI HALF DOLLARS— 1936

This issue was sponsored by the Cincinnati
Musical Center, on its Fiftieth Anniversary.

On the obverse is a portrait of Stephen
Foster, America's outstanding troubadour.

The reverse is supposed to represent the
Goddess of Music holding what is supposed to
be a lyre, but apparently this lyre must have
been bought at a 5^ & 10^ Store as it seems
to be only a toy.

Then again Stephen Foster died in 1864,
while the Musical Center in Cincinnati was not
founded until 1886.

Only a total of 15,000 coins were struck at
three different mints, 5,000 at each mint, and
sold in sets at $7.75 per set. Either through
good distribution or a great demand the sets
did not apparently go around to all those who
wanted them, and soon after the issue the
sets sold as high as $42.00 per set. These
coins are destined to become real rarities.

Page 44

1936— ELGIN (ILL.) HALF DOLLAR—1936

This coin was struck to commemorate the
One Hundredth Anniversary of the Founding
of Elgin and the proceeds of sale of the coins
is to go to the erection of a Pioneer Memorial.

An issue of 25,000 coins was minted, all at
the Philadelphia Mint and offered to the public
at $1.50 each.

An experienced gentleman was appointed
as its salesmanager or distributor and I under-
stand he is making a good job of it. However,
I still believe that $1.50 each for an issue of
25,000 coins is a little high as an issue price.

Page 45

1936— ALBANY (N. Y.) HALF DOLLAR—1936

This half dollar commemorates the Two
Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the grant-
ing of the charter to Albany, New York.
Albany is the second oldest chartered city in
the United States.

The obverse shows Sir Thomas Dongan,
Colonial Governor, presenting the charter to
Albany's first Mayor, Peter Schuyler.

The reverse shows a beaver, an animal
which was rather plentiful in that vicinity at
that time. The beaver was used on the early
seals of the city as well as on the present
seal.

The coin is rather beautiful, in fact one of
the most attractive in the entire series.

A total of 25,000 specimens were minted at
the Philadelphia Mint and offered at $2.00
each. A great to-do was made by the Com-
mission about their sale and about the limita-
tions that were to be placed on their distribu-
tion. But apparently collectors did not fall all
over themselves to buy the coins at $2.00
each, and some months after their issue, the
coins were still being offered by the Commis-
sion at their regular issue price.

Page 46

CONTEMPLATED ISSUES OF
COMMEMORATIVE HALF DOLLARS

The following is a list of the commemorative
half dollars which have been authorized by
Congress. Some of the issues were supposed
to come on market in 1936 and others in 1937.

According to the new law they can only be
issued at one Mint with a minimum issue of
25,000.

From the prices placed on some of these
new issues from $1.50 to $2.00 each for issues
of 25,000, it seems that the Committees in
charge have an exaggerated idea of the value
of the coins and the number of buyers. If the
dealers, the so-called dealers, and collector
speculators would be left out of the picture, I
doubt if more than 4,000 or 5,000 of the coins
could or would be disposed of.

Columbia (S. C.) Half Dollar

This town of Columbia will apparently place
itself on the Numismatic map by the issue of
a commemorative half dollar celebrating the
One Hundredth Fiftieth Anniversary of the
founding of Columbia.

A total issue of 25,000 coins has been
authorized of which 9,000 were coined at the
Philadelphia Mint and 8,000 each at the
Denver and San Francisco Mints. They are
offered by the Commission at $2.00 each but
from present indications the issue has been
greatly oversubscribed and the coin promises
to be another "rarity."

New Rochelle Half Dollar

Having visited New Rochelle on two or three
occasions I don't quite comprehend why this
town rates a commemorative coin to celebrate
its Two Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary. The
only claim to fame that this town may have is

Page 47

that it is only about "forty-five minutes from
Broadway." But apparently it must have, and
it does have, some active collectors who ap-
parently knew the art of string-pulling and got
the Bill for the coin through Congress for an
issue of 25,000 coins which will be distributed
at $2.00 per.

Delaware Half Dollar

This half dollar is to celebrate the Three
Hundredth Anniversary of the landing of the
Swedes on the present site of Wilmington.

25,000 coins were to be issued and are to
be offered by the Commission at $1.75 each.

Virginia Dare-Sir Walter Raleigh
Commemorative Half Dollar

The purpose for the issue of this coin is
best described by the Committee: "As a tribute
to America's first child born of English parent-
age (Virginia Dare) and in honor of our
Country's first English settlement (Sir Walter
Raleigh's Colony on Roanoke Island, N. C.)."

An issue of 25,000 coins has been coined
all were issued at one Mint, and distributed
at $1.50 each.

Gettysburg Half Dollar

This coin is to commemorate the Seventy-
Fifth Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg,
an event which, in our humble opinion, is
really worthy of a commemorative coin.

The Bill authorizes an issue of 50,000 coins
— 20,000 Philadelphia Mint, and 15,000 each of
the San Francisco and Denver Mints.

We have not seen an illustration of the
design of the coin but we are informed that
it will bear the portraits of both a Confederate
and Union soldier.

The sale price will be $1.65 per coin.

Page 48

GOLD

U. S. Commemorative Coins

Comparatively, the gold commemorative
coins are far more rare than the greater

majority of the commemorative half dollars,
as on a whole the number of specimens struck
of each issue of gold coins is far less in

number than any of the silver issues. But,
as with all rare coins, the "supply and de-
mand" is what regulates prevailing values.
Somehow, collectors are not "taking" to col-
lecting the gold coins and therefore there is

not as great a demand for them as there is

for the silver half dollars. However, these
gold commemoratives are steadily creeping
up in value, and the collectors who are suffi-
ciently wise to secure a set of gold commemo-
ratives will harvest a neat profit.

1903 — Louisiana Purchase Gold Dollars

These gold dollars are better known as the
St. Louis issue and were issued to com-
memorate the Louisiana Purchase. And to my
mind these are the most attractive of all of
our commemorative gold dollars.

They were issued with two obverse designs and one reverse:
one with the portrait of Jefferson, the President under whom
the Louisiana Purchase was made and the other with the
portrait of McKinley.

These coins were issued before the day when collectors were
enticed to buy two coins by the simple procedure of a tiny star
or a still tinier mint mark.

According to Mint Reports a total of 175,178 gold dollars, of
both types, were coined of which number approximately 35,000
were sold by the Committee at $3.00 each.

For the information of those who apparently noticed some
mention being made of Jefferson-McKinley gold dollars having
been coined in 1902, there were none dated in 1902 — all are
of one date 1903.

Page 49

1904-1905— LEWIS AND CLARK
GOLD DOLLARS

These commemorative gold dollars were
struck to commemorate the One Hundredth
Anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedi-
tion.

One variety of the coins was issued with
portraits of Lewis and Clark on either side.
Two dates were issued.

In 1904 a total of 25,028 were struck, of
which number 10,025 were sold and the bal-
ance were returned to the Mint to be remelted.

In 1905, according to Mint Reports, 35,041
were struck and almost an equal number as
of the 1904 were sold. The exact number as
reported is 10,041 and the balance of 25,000
were returned to the Mint.

The original selling price set by the Com-
mission was $2.00 each or six for $10.00, I
well remember buying these coins at that
price. However these gold dollars are not very
scarce.

Page 50

1915— PANAMA-PACIFIC GOLD
DOLLARS— 1915

The head on the obverse is supposed to be
that of ''Labor.'' The reverse is self explana-
tory.

Of these rather homely looking gold dollars,
25,000 were coined all of which were dis-
tributed or sold. The original sale price was
$2.00 each.

All of the Panama-Pacific commemorative
coins, gold and silver, were struck at the San
Francisco Mint.

In keeping with the traditions of the Golden West it was
fitting for the Panama-Pacific Exposition to celebrate and to
commemorate not only with the silver half dollar but with com-
memorative gold coins as well. Therefore a series of three
gold coins was issued as well as a commemorative silver half
dollar.

1915— PANAMA-PACIFIC QUARTER EAGLE
OR $2.50 GOLD PIECES— 1915

Obverse, figure of Columbia seated on a
sea horse, with reverse self explanatory.

Of these beautiful gold coins, 10,000 were
struck of which number 8,100 were sold at
$4.00 each and the balance 1,900 were re-
turned to the Mint for remelting.

Page 51

1915— COMMEMORATIVE $50.00 GOLD
PIECES— 1915

The portrait on the obverse is supposed to
represent Minerva, Goddess of Wisdom, Skill,
etc. The owl on the reverse is supposed to
represent the symbol of wisdom.

The $50.00 gold pieces were struck both in
round and octagonal shapes.

Of the octagonal $50.00 gold pieces, 1,500
were struck of which number 774 remained
unsold and were returned to the Mint to be
remelted, leaving 726 in the hands of col-
lectors or purchasers.

Of the round $50.00 gold pieces, 1,500 were
struck of which only 574 were sold and the
balance of 926 were returned to the Mint for
remelting.

These $50.00 gold pieces were originally
sold by the Commission and at the Exposition
at $100.00 each, but purchasers had the oppor-
tunity to secure the complete set of two $50.00
pieces, the quarter eagle, gold dollar, and
silver half dollar, all for $200.00.

Page 52

1916-1917— McKinley memorial

GOLD DOLLARS

The issue of these gold dollars was
prompted by some personal friends of the
President. The original plan was to strike
100,000 of the gold dollars to sell them at
$3.00 each and use the proceeds to erect a
memorial building at the birthplace of McKin-
ley, at Niles, Ohio.

However like all similar plans promulgated
by those who are inexperienced in numis-
matics, the sale of the coins met with meager
success.

In 1916 20,026 of the coins were struck of
which approximately 15,000 were sold.

In 1917 another issue of 10,000 were minted
of which only about 5,000 were sold. By that
time the Committee in charge apparently
realized that the number of collectors in the
country could not and would not absorb an
issue of 100,000 coins at $3.00 each. The
Committee had some 10,000 coins left on hand.
These were disposed of at a greatly reduced
price to the "Texas Dealer," who in turn dis-
tributed them extensively among collectors of
the country at a reduced price from the orig-
inal issue price of $3.00 each.

The design of the coin is self explanatory.
Both dates are of the same design.

Page 53

1922— GRANT GOLD DOLLARS— 1922

This gold dollar is of the same design as
the half dollar of the same issue; portrait of
Grant on the obverse and a cabin on the
reverse, which is supposed to be a replica of
the birthplace of General Grant.

The same method in selling was used with
the issues of the gold dollars as was done
with the half dollars: A small five pointed
star was incused (sunk in) above the name
GRANT.

5,000 of each variety, with and without star,
were struck, and the variety without star sold
for $3.00, while the variety with star sold at
$3.50 but now the variety without star is much
more valuable. Only a few hundred were left
of the variety with star and these were
purchased by a party in Cincinnati and then
were resold to me.

Although the issue of the gold dollars was
smaller than the half dollars, they do not com-
mand the price as do the half dollars; espe-
cially the variety with star. This is due to the
fact, of course, that there are a great many
more collectors of the half dollars than there
are of the gold dollars.

Page 54

1926— SESQUI-CENTENNIAL $2.50 GOLD
PIECES— 1926

This is the last issue of commemorative gold
coins and probably the last that will be issued
unless, of course, our Government returns to
the gold standard.

The obverse shows the standing figure of
Liberty and on the reverse the Independence
Hall at Philadelphia.

A total of 200,226 specimens were struck
and offered to the public at $4.00 each. Of
this huge number, only 46,019 were sold and
the balance returned to the Mint for remelting.

NOTE

The Commemorative Coins listed in this
booklet represent all of the commemoratives
issued, as well as the contemplated issues to
time of publication, January 30, 1937.

The prices quoted as "issue prices" are prices
at which the coins originally sold for by the
Commissions who handled them, and are not
the publisher's prices.

Page 55

MISCELLANEOUS

U. S. COMMEMORATIVE COINS

1900— WASHINGTON-LAFAYETTE
DOLLAR — 1900

This beautiful and interesting silver dollar,
the first and only commemorative dollar
struck, was issued on the occasion to com-
memorate the unveiling of the Lafayette Statue
in Paris. The funds for the erection of this
statue was originally subscribed for by the
school children of America.

On the obverse are portraits of Washington
and Lafayette. On the reverse shows the
equestrian statue of Lafayette as it now stands
in Paris.

According to Mint Reports 50,026 of the
dollars were struck and sold at $2.00 each.
None were returned to the Mint for remelting
so apparently they were all well distributed.
However until a few years ago small hoards
of them came in the market now and then.

This dollar also marks the first appearance
of the portrait of a President on a United
States coin excepting, of course, some of our
patterns.

Page 56

1893— ISABELLA QUARTER DOLLAR—1893

This coin has the distinction of being the
only United States coin with a portrait of a
foreign monarch, that of Queen Isabella. The
kneeling figure on the reverse represents a
spinner with distaff and spindle.

The issue of these coins was sponsored by
the Board of Lady Managers of the Columbian
Exposition in Chicago.

The number struck was 40,023 of which
number 14,809 were returned to the Mint for
remelting, and the balance of 25,214 were
supposed to have been sold at $1.00 each.
However a great percentage of this number
was purchased by a prominent member of
the Board of Lady Managers and were after-
wards released as the demand required. I
well remember that these coins were obtained
from the late Mr. Stevens of Chicago at 50^
or 60^ each in lots of 100 or more until about
■ten or twelve years ago.

However with the increased interest in com-
memorative coins the value of this, the only
commemorative quarter dollar, increased rap-
idly where today it retails for $3.00 each, and
is detined to become more valuable and
higher in price from time to time.

Page 57

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE
MEHL NUMISMATIC ESTABLISHMENT

Some thirty-six years ago, a then much younger man than
I am today, — (although I still try to kid myself that old age
is still in the far and distant — I hope — future) — I discovered
that my then meager earnings as a clerk in a store went into
my equally meager coin collection, which I must have started

during my cradle days, as I do not
recall of my ever not being interested
in coins. I heard of and read about
the great rarities, which I did not even
hope to ever see much less to own.

I thought that by dealing in coins it
may be possible for me, if not to add
to my earnings, to at least add to
my numismatic joy.

An initial small advertisement
brought fair results. I worked at the
store during the day, and at "numis-
matics" during the evenings and late
into the night. Within two years I
made sufficient progress and felt safe
to take a chance and "resign" my
clerkship and venture out as a full-
fledged "numismatist."

In 1903 my first coin circular ap-
peared: In 1904 my first Fixed Price
Catalog made its appearance, and in
From photo in "Numismatist" 1906, my first Auction Sale made its
March, 1906 debut. I was the cataloger, typist, sec-

retary, mail clerk, etc. My establish-
ment consisted of a second-hand desk at home. It was then that I
observed that the numismatic business was still being conducted
in ruts made thirty or forty years before. I noticed that no effort
was being made by anyone to popularize coin collecting and to
create new collectors. The idea occurred to me to try advertising
in general publications. My first "large" advertisement appeared
in Colliers, — a five-liner — at the huge cost, at least to me then,
of $12.50. The results were gratifying.

In the same year, 1906, I felt sufficiently warranted and
financially able to move out of my "home office" into small
rented desk space in a downtown office. A year later, in 1907,
I experienced the thrill of moving into a real office; of course,
only a! single room, but nevertheless an office. I could even
afford the luxury of an assistant then. And in August of the
same year, I made my most eventful, delightful, and most
successful venture of my life. I formed my life-long partner-
ship with a sweet and beautiful young lady, Miss Ethel Rosen,
who during these thirty years as Mrs. B. Max, made life
sweeter and more beautiful for me. And her fine sympathetic
understanding, sweet companionship and wise counsel is re-
sponsible more than anything else for what success we have
attained. Our "home establishment" consists of a pair of
beautiful daughters, two not so beautiful but fine son-in-laws,
and one glorious grandson.

I continued to expand my advertising in general publications so
that in a few years I felt justified and able to plunge and pay
$1,000.00 for a single advertisement — a quarter page in Colliers.

When the year 1912 rolled around I had already held some
rather important Sales, such as Professor Rooks, Cowell, Griffith,
and others. And by that time my business had prospered to
the extent that it required an entire half floor of office space
in a downtown office building and a staff of ten assistants.

By 1916 I had accumulated sufficient reserve to be able to
make a "down payment" and to build my own building, which

B. MAX MEHL

Page 58

I now own without a single dollar of indebtedness against it.
And by 1924 I was spending some $50,000,000 a year for general
publicity advertising. And since then I have averaged approxi-
mately $100,000.00 per year for Publicity and Radio advertising,
and handling an average of more than one million pieces of
mail per year. Have paid as much as $20,000.00 for a single
advertisement. And those who know admit that this great
publicity is responsible for the present great increase in interest
in numismatics by the general public. In the meantime, to be
exact, in 1921 and 1922, I held some of the most famous Sales,
such as the Manning, the great Ten Eyck and many others.

From then on it is more or less "modern history," having had
the pleasure and good fortune of handling a goodly number,
probably the greater majority of all fine collections offered in
this country, such as the H. O. Mann, Fred Joy, Dr. French,
Judge Slack, Rees, Dr. Wilharm, Stoddard, and a great many
others, including the greatest of all collections of American
coins ever to be sold, the great Newcomer Collection, valued
at a quarter of a million dollars.

I now occupy practically my entire building, devoted to numis-
matics exclusively; employ an average of fifty people, and have
created a mailing list of active coin collectors of upward of
ten thousand names. My staff, I believe, is larger than the
combined staffs of all other numismatic dealers in the country.

In 1931 I found it necessary and desirable to enlarge and
remodel my offices, where today they are pronounced by those
who have visited them, as the finest, most complete and well
appointed numismatic offices to be found anywhere in the
world, and where a most cordial welcome awaits you.

The policies I inaugurated in the conducting of my business
at the very beginning are in force today. Every transaction is
handled by me only on the fair basis of satisfaction guaranteed
or money refunded. Whether your transaction amounts to one
dollar or $100,000.00, it receives the
same careful and friendly considera-
tion. The small purchaser or seller is
treated just as courteously and just as
fairly as the larger buyer or seller.

If you desire to sell your collection,
you have at your disposal my services
which has at its command a capital
of more than $250,000.00 and resources
of half a million dollars. And if you
desire to place your collection for sale
at auction you may have a liberal
amount of cash advanced without inter-
est. In other words, I endeavor to
conduct every department of numis-
matics in a business-like, friendly and
courteous manner. What I desire and
value most is the creating not just of
collectors, but the creating of good
friends. When a transaction is made,
it is never considered closed. I want and certainly try to
merit the continued friendship and good will of everyone I
come in contact with.

With the above resume I "rest my case." I shall be delighted
to hear from you whenever you may require ANY KIND of
numismatic service. My thirty-six years of proven success,
square dealings, and ample financial responsibility is at your
service and command.

Cordially yours,

Fort Worth, Texas.
January 30, 1937.

THREE LATE ARRIVALS!

Was just able to secure illustrations of three of the latest
Commemorative Halves. I am pleased to include them here.
What do you think of 'em?

THE COLUMBIA SO. CAR. HALF DOLLAR

Issued at three Mints. 9,000 at Philadelphia and 8,000
each at the Denver and San Francisco Mints. Distributed in
January. The issue greatly over-subscribed.

VIRGINIA DARE-SIR WALTER RALEIGH
HALF DOLLAR

Promised to be distributed in January.

GETTYSBURG HALF DOLLAR

Not yet issued. Promised for early this year. Issue to be
50,000; of which 20,000 to be coined at Philadelphia, and
15,000 each at Denver and San Francisco.

PRINTED BY

STAFFORD-LOWDON COMPANY
FORT WORTH, TEXAS

Entrance to the Offices of
B. MAX MEHL

The Largest and Finest Appointed Exclusive Numismatic
Offices In the World